This qualification is intended for those who have pursued the full FRCPath in histopathology, neuropathology or paediatric pathology and who then wish to specialise in forensic pathology. The requirements are similar to those for the Part 2 in forensic pathology.
The examination may be taken after a period of training, which has included a minimum of two years’ substantial involvement in Coronial/Fiscal autopsy practice, of which at least 18 months must have been in forensic pathology departments approved by the College. Candidates must also have had at least three months’ experience in each of neuropathology and paediatric pathology, although the qualifications in regard to this time period, outlined in the Part 2 FRCPath above, would equally apply here.
The examination has two components:
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Casebook: a casebook of 10 medicolegal cases, the purpose and format of which is exactly the same as for the Part 2 FRCPath. Candidates submitting a satisfactory casebook but failing to achieve the required standard in other components of the examination, will not be required to submit a new casebook at any subsequent attempt at the examination.
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Practical examination: the same three-day examination format as for Part 2 FRCPath in forensic pathology, to comprise autopsy, microscopy, long/short cases, oral and written paper.